Name: Authentic Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon garam masala; Salt to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of capturing that rich, vibrant taste of a restaurant-quality curry at home, then this is the recipe for you. The Authentic Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe brings together tender marinated chicken and a luxuriously creamy, spiced tomato sauce that melds tradition with a touch of culinary genius. It’s a beloved classic that bursts with flavor and warmth, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a comforting weeknight meal. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never look back on your takeout orders the same way again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with rich orange curry containing many chunky pieces of tender meat, covered in creamy sauce with a few swirls of white cream on top. Fresh green cilantro leaves are scattered over the curry, adding bright green spots. In the blurry background, there is a white bowl with fluffy white rice and some white flatbreads stacked on each other, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you; each component is simple yet carefully chosen to build layers of incredible taste, texture, and aroma. From the smooth cream to the earthy spices, these ingredients work together harmoniously to create a memorable curry experience.

Boneless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs bring juiciness and depth, but breasts work if you prefer leaner meat.
Plain yogurt: The backbone of the marinade, tenderizing the chicken and adding tang.
Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances rich flavors beautifully.
Garlic and ginger: Freshly minced and grated for that essential aromatic punch.
Ground cumin and coriander: These warm spices layer earthy, citrusy notes into both marinade and sauce.
Turmeric: Gives the dish its characteristic golden hue and subtle earthiness.
Cayenne pepper: For that gentle heat—adjust according to how spicy you like it.
Garam masala: A fragrant Indian spice blend that ties all flavors together.
Salt: Enhances every ingredient perfectly.
Vegetable oil: For sautéing the onions and spices, helping release their flavors.
Onion: Finely chopped onions add a mellow sweetness to the sauce.
Crushed tomatoes: Provide body and acidity that balance the creaminess beautifully.
Heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously smooth and indulgent sauce we all love.
Fresh cilantro: The fresh garnish that adds color and a hint of herbaceous brightness.

How to Make Authentic Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing that incredible marinade—yogurt, lemon juice, a handful of fragrant spices, garlic, and ginger. Toss your cubed chicken into this vibrant blend and make sure every piece is coated generously. The magic happens as it rests refrigerated for at least one hour or overnight for maximum flavor infusion and tenderness. This step is key because it not only imbues the chicken with those authentic spices but also ensures a juicy and tender bite later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, heat a grill pan or skillet and add a little oil. Carefully place your marinated chicken pieces in the hot pan, being sure not to crowd them—that way they brown beautifully instead of steaming. Flip occasionally to get that golden char all around, cooking until the chicken is done through, usually around 5 to 7 minutes. This grilling step locks in the smoky flavors and sets the stage for the sauce to take center stage.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Using the same pan keeps all those irresistible caramelized bits from the chicken and adds depth. Sauté finely chopped onions until soft and translucent, then stir in more garlic, ginger, and the spices. This fragrant base releases the layered flavors essential to true tikka masala and fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring everything to a simmer. Let it gently cook for about 10 minutes to marry those flavors while thickening slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, a splash of water will smooth it out. This patience pays off, creating the robust tomato richness that balances the cream and spices perfectly.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream to transform the sauce into a velvety, lush coating that clings beautifully to the chicken. Return your cooked pieces to the pan and let everything simmer together for another 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up all that saucy goodness. Don’t forget to give it a taste and adjust salt or spices if you feel it needs a final personalized touch.

Step 6: Serve

Finish off by garnishing with fresh cilantro that adds a fresh, vibrant pop against the rich curry. Serve your Authentic Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe steaming hot alongside fluffy basmati rice or soft naan bread to scoop every last bit of sauce. It’s the perfect comfort meal that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

How to Serve Authentic Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro isn’t just for looks—it adds that unmistakable herbaceous contrast and a burst of color that elevates every bite. Consider adding a dash of garam masala or a few sliced green chilies if you want to bring a bit more heat and complexity on the side.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with aromatic basmati rice, which soaks up the creamy sauce like a dream. For something a little different, try serving with butter naan, garlic naan, or even a cooling cucumber raita. The balance between creamy curry, warm bread, and fresh or tangy sides makes the meal truly complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, consider plating the chicken tikka masala in a warm, rustic bowl topped with a lemon wedge and extra cilantro. You can line the edges with grilled vegetables or lightly toasted nuts for texture contrast. Layering flavors visually will make your guests even more excited to dig in!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken tikka masala keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors even deepen a bit overnight, making it a perfect choice for meal prep or an easy next-day lunch.

Freezing

This curry freezes wonderfully. Just cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, preserving all those rich, layered flavors.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. Adding a splash of cream or water can help restore the sauce’s consistency, making it taste freshly made again. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the texture perfect.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more juiciness and richness, chicken breasts will work too if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep the texture tender.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative or Greek yogurt stirred in at the end for a lighter option. Just add these gently to avoid curdling.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate for at least one hour, but overnight gives the deepest flavor and the most tender texture. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will add noticeable flavor.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The cayenne pepper adds a mild to moderate heat depending on your preference. Feel free to adjust the amount or omit it if you want a milder dish, as the spices shine without overwhelming heat.

Can I make this recipe in advance for a dinner party?

Definitely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately, store them in the fridge, and combine or reheat just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant for your guests.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Authentic Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe a try because it’s a wonderful way to bring the dazzling flavors of Indian cuisine into your own kitchen with confidence and ease. The juicy, spiced chicken paired with the creamy tomato sauce is nothing short of magic—your taste buds will thank you for it. Happy cooking and enjoy every saucy bite!